Having a high credit score can help you get a better mortgage, pay less interest and access to more financing options.

No one can dispute the fact that credit scores have proven time and time again to be major determinants in property transactions. In today's increasingly interconnected world, credit scores have become a crucial factor in various aspects of life, from obtaining loans to securing employment. In Malaysia, credit scores play a significant role in the property market, and every Malaysian has one. Having a high credit score can help you get a better mortgage, pay less interest and access to more financing options. A low credit score, on the other hand, may restrict your ability to borrow money and raise the cost of financing.

A person's creditworthiness or their capacity for responsible debt management is indicated numerically by their credit score. Numerous variables are taken into account when calculating it, such as credit utilisation, payment history, length of credit history, credit types and recent credit inquiries. The Central Credit Reporting System (CCRIS) operated by Bank Negara Malaysia is the most frequently used credit scoring system in Malaysia.

What about when it comes to getting a mortgage? Simply put, a mortgage requires having a high credit score. To evaluate a borrower's risk and predict whether they will be able to repay the loan, lenders look at credit scores. Higher credit score holders are typically given better terms, like lower interest rates and are regarded as more creditworthy.

What affects a credit score?

A person’s credit score can be affected by a variety of factors. The most important factor might perhaps be the borrower’s payment history, which indicates their capacity to make timely payments on their outstanding debts. What also matters is credit utilisation or the ratio of credit used in comparison to the total amount of credit available. Essentially, a high credit utilisation ratio may have a bad effect on one’s credit rating.

In this case, the duration of credit history should matter too. When it comes to banks, it comes down to just how established a credit profile is. A longer credit history can help raise a credit score because it shows a more established credit profile. Once again, do not forget other factors impact credit too including loans, mortgages and credit cards. Having a diverse mix of credit can demonstrate responsible credit management.

Surprisingly, a credit score can also be slightly impacted by new credit inquiries. There is something called a credit inquiry, which is counted whenever a lender looks up an individual’s credit report. When someone makes too many inquiries within a short period, this signals to lenders that they are actively applying for credit. This raises questions about their creditworthiness and can impact their score.

Consistency is key

Individuals with low credit scores can raise them through consistency. Being able to demonstrate responsible credit management can be shown through regular, on-time payments. A credit score can also be raised by paying down any outstanding balances. To banks, a consistent figure means stability.

Sometimes, having multiple credit accounts can also be a good thing. Building a longer and more established credit history is aided by maintaining existing credit accounts and responsibly using them. As previously mentioned, diversifying credit by obtaining different types of credit will also help contribute to a stronger credit profile. Just remember to pay it on time.

Collectively, when a larger pool of buyers is deemed creditworthy and thus given access to favourable mortgage terms, this can lead to increased demand for properties. This nationwide economic indicator is a useful way to see the current condition of the market and whether the people are healthy credit-wise. Increased demand indicates healthy incomes which would drive up property prices, especially in areas that are popular or well-sought after. The more buyers compete for Malaysia’s supply of properties, the more sellers can ask for higher prices.

In terms of property market dynamics, the correlation between credit scores and property prices is clear as day. Research conducted by the National Property Information Centre (NAPIC) has shown a correlation between the average credit score of a population and the rate of property price appreciation in that area. Areas with higher average credit scores have generally experienced faster property price growth compared to areas with lower average credit scores. Conversely, in areas where individuals with lower credit scores congregate, the property market will be subsequently affected by slower growth or even decline.

The relationship between credit scores and property prices can also be influenced by government policies. It may be simpler for people with lower credit scores to enter the real estate market for instance, if the government implements policies to promote homeownership, such as lowering the required minimum down payment. Property prices may rise as a result of this increased demand, even in places where the average credit score is lower.

A positive correlation

While specific statistics may vary over time, studies have shown a correlation between higher credit scores and the ability to purchase more expensive properties. For example, a joint study conducted by several local research institutions revealed that individuals with credit scores above 700 are more likely to purchase properties in premium neighbourhoods compared to those with lower credit scores.

Additionally, studies have found that the availability of affordable housing options is often limited in areas with high average credit scores. This is because individuals with strong credit scores are more likely to qualify for larger mortgages, allowing them to compete for more expensive properties. As a result, the market for affordable housing can become more competitive, driving up prices.

Credit scores play a significant role in the Malaysian property market, influencing mortgage terms, property prices and market dynamics. While the impact may not be always direct, it is clear that individuals with strong credit scores have a greater advantage in the property market. By understanding the factors that influence credit scores and taking steps to improve them, individuals can up their chances of purchasing a property and achieving their financial goals.

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